balsamic vinegar = aceto balsamicoPronunciation: ball-SAM-ick Substitutes: Hey, don't be so cheap. Nothing is like a good balsamic vinegar and you deserve it. You only need a few drops. And don't buy that stuff they sell at mega-grocery stores. Or if you do, pour it into a saucepan and reduce it by at least a third. But really, please, go to an Italian speciality store and lay out at least $30 for a ten year old bottle. It will last you for a long time.

verjuice = verjusPronunciation: VER-juice or vehr-ZHOONotes: Verjuice is a sour juice made from unripened grapes. Vinegars sometimes create off-tastes in the wines that accompany a meal. Verjuice doesn't, so it's a good substitute for vinegar if you're planning to serve an expensive wine with dinner. Though becoming more popular, it's still hard to find. Look for it in gourmet specialty shops. Or just serve a cheaper wine.